Fiji Water Flying Fijian captain Tevita Ikanivere is preparing for a challenging match against hosts Tonga in the Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup in Nukua’lofa tomorrow. Ikanivere has been named the leader of the 23-man squad for this revamped tournament as they arrive in the Friendly Islands.
“Playing Tonga on their home ground with the support of their passionate fans is something we anticipate. We view this match as a preparation opportunity,” said Ikanivere before their departure on Tuesday. He emphasized the importance of correcting mistakes made during their previous match against Samoa last month.
Fiji secured a decisive 42-16 victory over Samoa in their opening Pacific Nations Cup match at the HFC Bank stadium, while Samoa triumphed over Tonga 42-17 last weekend in Apia, Samoa.
“We expect a similarly physical contest to the one we had against Samoa. Our goal is to maintain physicality and consistent effort early on to secure victory. We need to avoid penalties and not let ourselves be pushed back down the field,” he added.
Fiji and Tonga, traditional rivals on the rugby field, have faced each other in Test matches since 1924, with this weekend’s match marking the 95th encounter over the last century.
In team updates, Adrea Cocagi returns as the inside centre, while new Fijian Drua recruit Vuate Karawalevu will join Epeli Momo on the wings. Isaiah Ravula is set to start at fullback. Versatile player Albert Tuisue will take the Number 8 position, moving Kitione Salawa to the bench. He will be joined in the back row by Ratu Meli Derenalagi and Elia Canakaivata.
The front row will consist of Eroni Mawi, Ikanivere, and Samuela Tawake, with Mesake Vocevoce and Temo Mayanavanua anchoring the second row. Frank Lomani will continue his role as scrum-half, pairing with fly-half Caleb Muntz, while Iosefo Masi takes up the outside centre position.
The match is set to kick off at 3 PM.